Corrosion control assembly

ABSTRACT

A self-energizing cell provides control of corrosion and hard scale in thermal and coolant water systems by altering the chemical and physical composition of electrolytic water subjected to the cell, and includes a rotatable arrangement to reduce the accumulation of substances which tend to impede the flow of electrons. The cell is immersed in water flowing through a metal tank and its support includes an upright shaft in the tank. The water is directed at a tangent to the periphery of one of the metallic members of the galvanic couple to rotate it constantly as the water flows through the tank.

o .1 rte States atent 1 1 1 1 4 King 1 Mar. 25, 1975 [5 1 CORROSIONCONTROL ASSEMBLY 3,108,055 10/1963 Grant 204/197 3,347,768 10/1967 [76]lnventor: Arthur S. Klng, 9013 W. 51st Ter., 3,377264 4/1968 P191119Vfllage, K8115. 66203 3,392,102 7/1968 Koch 204/249 3,402,1 16 9/1968Kaltenhauser et a1. 204/195 R [22} June 1972 3,560,366 2/1971 Fisher204/212 [21] Appl. No.: 267,049 3,574,079 4/1971 Kalmanw. 204/195 R3,619,391 11/1971 Eisner 204/149 Related Appllcatlon Data 3,715,2992/1973 Anderson et a1. 204/212 [63] Continuation-impart of Ser. No.173,874, Aug. 23,

1971, abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of primary C Edmund'son876971 1969' abandoned Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Schmidt, Johnson, Hovey& 52 us. c1 204/212, 204/148, 204/150, wmdms 204/248, 204/249 1511 Int.c1. c231 13/00 1571 ABSTRACT [58] Field of Search 204/248, 249, 148,150, A self-energizing cell provides control of corrosion 204/212, 195R, 196, 197 and hard scale in thermal and coolant water systems byaltering the chemical and physical composition of [56] References Citedelectrolytic water subjected to the cell, and includes 61 UNITED STATESPATENTS rotatable arrangement to reduce the accumulation of 54] 3356/1895 substances which tend to impede the flow of electrons. X H1895The cell is immersed in water flowing through a metal 645,419 3/1900tank and its support includes an upright shaft in the l,058,1 13 4/1913tank. The water is directed at a tangent to the periph- 1.066,57O 7/1913ery of one of the metallic members of the galvanic 2,449,706 9/1948couple to rotate it constantly as the water flows 25871996 8/1954through the tank. 3,043,764 7/1962 3,073,772 1/1963 17 Claims, 10Drawing Figures um q 1; L 11 2 CORROSION CONTROL ASSEMBLY CROSSREFERENCES This is a continuation-in-part of my copending applicationSer. No. l73,874,-filed Aug. 23, 1971, and entitled SELF-ENERGIZINGELECTROLYTIC LIQUID CORRECTION DEVICE, now abandoned which, in turn, isa continuation-impart of my earlier application Ser. No. 876,971, filedNov. 14, 1969, and entitled MAGNESIUM CELL LIQUID TREATER, nowabandoned.

Corrosion of metals in domestic and industrial water systems is a commonoccurrence and magnesium water treating devices for alleviating theproblem have been known for some time. Rather complete explanations ofthe factors influencing corrosion reactions are available in manypublications and need not be set forth herein for an understanding ofthe principles of my present invention. Moreover, it is to be recognizedthat the useful life of water pipes and other metal equipment in heatingand cooling plants and other water related installations is governedlargely by the character of the water supply in various locations and byits seasonal variations.

It is generally recognized also that the exact mechanisms which controlcorrosion in a given environment are not completely understood.Nonetheless, it is possi ble to minimize corrosion, and the magnesiumcell has become a generally accepted, self-energizing electrolytic watercorrection device for such purpose.

Inasmuch as the magnesium cell operates on the principle thatdissimilarity of chemical composition of metals in contact with eachother in the conductive water induces electromotive force differenceswhich lead to a flow of electrons from the more corrodable to the lesscorrodable metal, it is desirable that at least some intimatecontact bemaintained in order to effect efficient operation.

Another problem which drastically limits the usefulness of cells usingmagnesium or the like in controlling corrosion is the relatively lowvoltage and weak electrical field that can be generated thereby. As aresult, the desired action of the cell treats only those portions of thesystem closely adjacent the self-energizing device itself. The normalresistivity of water systems is sufficiently great to drasticallyattenuate the corrosion con trolling action at remote locations. It isbelieved that the only solution heretofore devised to permit corrosioncontrolling action through long distances has been the utilization ofimpressed voltage of relatively high magnitude rather than makeadvantageous use ofa selfenergizing cell.

However, it is difficult to entirely prevent corrosion through use ofconventional correction devices of such nature because of the need toperiodically clean the anodic and cathodic metals of the cell,particularly at the zones of contact when they are in interengagementover a substantial area.

It is, therefore, an important object of the present in vention toeliminate the need for periodic removal and cleaning of the contactingsurfaces of the two metals of a magnesium cell type of self-energizingelectrolytic water correction device.

Another important object of the present invention is to rotate the twometals relatively and thereby effect a substantial reduction in theaccumulation of substances therebetween which would otherwise tend toimpede the flow of electrons.

Still another important object of the present invention is to operablycouple the cell in a water system in such manner as to take fulladvantage of the cathodic action throughout the system.

A further object of the present invention is to provide aself-energizing galvanic cell which is capable of establishingsatisfactory electrical power fields at locations remote therefrom.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a cellthat is capable of electrically treating electrolytic liquid in a remotesystem to prevent scale formation therein.

An important aim of the present invention is to provide a novel cell ofthe aforementioned character coupled with a water system in such manneras to cathodically treat the latter by utilizing an electrolytic liquidseparate and remote from the water of the system.

Another important aim of the present invention is to provide in anassembly for controlling corrosion in a system using electrolytic liquidthrough the use of a self-energizing galvanic cell located remotely fromthe system, an arrangement for electrically connecting the cell in aclosed circuit through the liquid in the system so as to create thedesired action at the desired location within the system, together withmeans to prevent short-circuiting of the closed circuit by theelectrolytic liquid even though the latter may form a portion of theclosed circuit itself.

Still another important aim of the present invention is to provide aself-energizing corrosion control assembly capable of electricallytreating electrolytic fluid by polarizing the fluid molecules so as tofree impurity ions from the fluid through use of a relatively lowelectrical power galvanic cell adaptable for creation of the necessaryelectrical power field.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a self-energizing device made pursuant toone embodiment of my present invention, parts being broken away toreveal details of construction;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged, perspective, central, vertical, cross-sectionalview taken on line 2 -2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view still further enlarged, taken on line3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a self-energizing device madepursuant to a second embodiment of my present invention showing the sameas used, by way of example, in connection with a hot water boiler or thelike for heating a radiator;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged, median, vertical cross-sectional view of thedevice shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a self-energizing device madepursuant to a third embodiment of my invention showing the same as usedin connection with a system similar to that of FIG. 4, parts beingbroken away and in section for clearness;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of a portion of the piping of thesystem shown in FIG. 7 and illustrating an alternate electrode used inconjunction with the third embodiment of my invention, with portionsbroken away to reveal details of construction;

FIG. 9 illustrates a modified arrangement of the apparatus of FIG. 8;and

FIG. is a side elevational view of the same selfenergizing device asillustrated in FIG. 7, but as utilized to accomplish electricaltreatment of an electrolytic liquid in another type of system which isnot in liquid communication with the device.

While self-energizing device 10 shown in FIGS. 1-3 is designed to beinterposed in any system where water correction is desired, it may, ofcourse, be used in connection with any electrolytic liquid (such aswater) capable of flowing to a metal container 12, such as steel, froman inlet 14 to an outlet 16. An upright metal shaft 18 is interposedbetween a top 20 and a bottom 22 of the container 12, the top 20 beingreleasably held in place by fasteners 24. Steel tubes 26 and 28 on thetop 20 and the bottom 22 contain insulators 30 and 32, such as aceramic, which receive the shaft 18, a metal cup 34 being interposedbetween the shaft 18 and the insulator 30.

Any number of pairs of discs may be threaded on the shaft 18 invertically spaced relationship, one only being shown and consisting ofalower disc 36 rotatably supporting an upper disc 38. The disc 36 is heldagainst rotation, such as by a nut 40 secured to the disc 36 throughrivets 42 and a locknut 44, both meshing with threads 46 on the shaft18.

While unit 48, which includes the magnesium disc 38 and the brass disc36, is herein referred to for convenience as a magnesium cell, it is tobe understood that any suitable dissimilar materials may be employedwhich are sufficiently far apart in the electrochemical series toproduce a flow of electrons therebetween. Thus, the anodic member 38 maybe formed of any suitable electronegative metal which is relatively highin the electromotive force series of elements (above hydrogen) includingalso, for example, zinc and aluminum, and the cathodic member 36, whichshould be appreciably less corrodable than the member 38, may be formedof any suitable electropositive material which is relatively low in theelectromotive force series of elements (below hydrogen) including also,for example, carbon.

Accordingly, the sacrificed less noble metal is used in the disc 38 anddisposed for easy replacement simply by removal of the top 20 of thetank or container 12, it being understood that the cup 34 readily slipsoff shaft 18 during removal of the top 20.

The galvanic couple between the members 36 and 38 of the cell unit 48,and the self-energizing electrolytic correction of the liquid providedthereby, requires intimate contact between their interengaging faces,and such is adversely affected to a substantial extent if substances arepermitted to accumulate thereon of such nature as to impede the flow ofelectrons therebetween. Such substances may be contained in the liquidbeing treated, produced by the correction thereon, and/or emanate fromthe corrosive action of the discs 36 and 38 themselves.

In any event, they must be removed; and in order to avoid need forperiodic removal of the unit 48 for the purpose of removing thecoatings, the disc 38 is caused to rotate by the revolving action of theliquid itself, entering the container by the inlet 14 and flowingtherefrom by the outlet 16 at tangents as shown. Supplementary powermeans, if need be, takes the form of a branch line 50 from the inlet 14,which may have a smaller inside diameter than the inlet 14, and beprovided with a nozzle 52 for directing a jet stream of liquid at atangent to the annular periphery 54.0f the disc 38.

The swirling action of the liquid on the unit 48 and the tank 12 (aswell as the shaft 18, the nuts 40 and 44,

and the bushing 34, all of which supporting structure should be of thesame material as the disc 36) tends to keep such parts from coating ofdetrimental substances thereon, and particularly keeps the interengagingfaces of discs 36 and 38 smooth and clean because of their relativerotation.

Container 12 is provided with a pressure relief valve 56 in the top 20thereof for escape of gases such as hydrogen and oxygen which may bereleased by virtue of the corrective action of the unit 48.

Means is provided for establishing an electric field across thecontainer 12 and the unit 48 from time to time to remove theaforementioned substances which might accumulate within the container 12and particularly on the members 36 and 38 when the device 10 is coupledwith a liquid flow system that has insufficient pressure and/or volumeto maintain an adequate swirling action of the liquid in tank 12, andparticularly on the disc 38. Such means consists in operatively chargingthe shaft 18 and the container 12, and includes the use of conductors 58and 60 coupled with the container 12 and the cup or bushing 34respectively, and capable of connecting the container 12 and, therefore,the shaft 18 across a source of direct potential (not shown) toestablish the electric field.

During such cleaning step, the liquid within the container 12 should notbe flowing; therefore, shutoff valves 62 and 64 are provided in theinlet 14 and the outlet 16 respectively.

After such cleaning operation, the substances cleaned from all of thecomponent parts within the container 12 as well as the inner surfaces ofthe latter may be flushed into the sytem by reopening the valves 62 and64, thereby helping to prevent further corrosion of the equipment towhich the liquid is directed from outlet 16, such as boilers, coolingcoils, and other domestic and industrial equipment contacted by thetreated liquid.

In the event the member 38 does not rotate fast enough or continuouslyas the liquid flows through the tank 12, one or more vanes 65 may beprovided for the member 38. Such vanes 65 should extend outwardly beyondthe periphery 54 of member 38 so that the liquid will impinge thereon,and be made from material, such as a plastic, which will not causedissipation of the member 38 and, therefore, become loose. Vane 65 maybe molded into or otherwise fastened to member 38 and I have shown a lug66 at the inner end of vane 65 to hold it against displacement.

The self-energizing device of FIGS. 4-6 includes a cathodic member inthe form of a container 112, which may be of much the same nature ascontainer 12, and provided with an inlet 114 as well as an outlet 116.

An upright shaft 118, having domed ends. is interposed between top andbottom 122 of container 112, the top 120 being releasably held in placeby fasteners 124. Bearing tubes 126 and 128 on the top 120 and thebottom 122 receive the shaft 118 such that the rounded ends of thelatter are rotatably supported by and in direct wiping engagement withthe tubes I26 and 128.

Shaft 118 extends through the longitudinal axis of an elongated block138 that is clamped against an outturned flange 140 rigid to shaft 118by a nut 144 meshing with screw threads 146 on the shaft 118. Seals 168clamped around the shaft 118 and against the upper and lower ends of theblock member 138 preclude entrance of the liquid around the shaft 118within the longitudinal bore of block 138 through which the shaft 118extends to impede decomposition within such bore.

As shown in FIG. 6, the block 138 is square in transverse cross sectionalthough the periphery 154 of the block 138 may be made with any one ofa number of other polygonal cross-sectional configurations, presenting aplurality of corners 165 functioning in much the same manner as the vane65 of FIG. 2 to cause rotation of the block 138 by the action of theliquid entering the container 112 by way of the inlet 114 at a tangentto the container 112 and impinging upon the periphery 154 of the block138. That length of the shaft 118 which is embedded within the block 138is also transversely polygonal as shown in FIG. 6 such that the block138 and the shaft 118 rotate together as a unit as illustrated by arrowsin FIG. 6.

The material used in the production of the cathodic member or container112, tubes l26 and 128, shaft 118, flange 140 and nut 144 should beappreciably less corrodable than the material used in the production ofte block 138, to thereby present the galvanic couple between thecathodic member and block 138, precisely as above explained with respectto the device 10. Any suitable gasket material, including rubber andplastic, may be employed in the production of the seals 168.

Moreover, it is to be understood that the flow of electric current ofthe cell unit of device 110 from the metallic block 138 to the shaft118, the tubes 126 and 128 and the container 112, all ofwhich arelikewise capable of conducting electric current, does notbecomeinterrupted by virtue of corrosive action within the tubes 126 and128 or collection in such tubes of the products of decompositionemanating from the block 138 because of the wiping engagement of theshaft 118 with the tubes 126 anad 128. This self-cleaning feature ofdevice 110 is comparable to that attained by the wiping action of thedisc 38 against the disc 36 in FIGS. l-2 for maintaining the free flowof electric current between discs 36 and 38.

By the same token, and again as in the case of the device of FIGS. 1-3,the constant rotation of the block 138 causes its products ofdecomposition to be projected therefrom by the action of centrifugalforce. Therefore, during the rotation of the block 138, and because alsoof the swirling action of the liquid within the container 112 as shownby arrows in FIG. 5, the outer surface of the block 138 and the innersurfaces of the container 112 are kept clean such that there is nointerference with electron flow necessary for proper action of thegalvanic couple in the correction of the electrolytic water or otherliquid flowing through the container 112 from inlet 114 to the outlet116.

In FIG. 4 of the drawings, the device 110, which is insulated fromground, is shown operably associated with a grounded steel steam boiler170 having an inlet 172 communicating with the outlet 116 through use ofa metallic connector 174, inlet 172 being below the level 176 of water178 in the boiler 170.

Steam outlet 180 of boiler 170, disposed above the water level 176, isconnected, for example, with a radi ator 182, the condensate escapingfrom radiator 182 6 through line 184. The line 184 communicates with theinlet 114 by virtue of a standard dielectric coupling 186 between inlet114 and line 184.

A check valve 188 is provided in line 184 between radiator 182 andcoupling 186, and a pump 190 is interposed in line 184 between valve 188and coupling 186.

Makeup water for the boiler 170 is directed into the line 184 betweenvalve 188 and pump 190 by a supply line 200 provided with a valve 202.Therefore, the galvanic action extends from within the container 110through the outlet 116 and to the boiler 170 and radiator 182 to thedielectric coupling 186 by virtue of the metallic nature and electriccurrent carrying capability of the outlet 116, the coupling 174, theinlet 172, the

boiler 170, the outlet 180, the radiator 182 and the line 184.

As a consequence of such action, the products of decomposition emanatingfrom the block 138 will plate the inner surfaces of the boiler 170,protecting it against corrosion and formation of lime deposits.

The liquid emanating from either of the devices 10 or 110 may beintroduced into a system such as shown in FIG. 4 or into other systemsof entirely different arrangements without use of the above describedcoupling for continuing the galvanic or cathodic action into the system.Comparable results, including the aforementioned plating action, will beattained; however, when the devices 10 or 110 are connected to a systemin the manner shown in FIG. 4, the effectiveness of the devices isappreciably enhanced and the time for rendering the system non-corrosivewill be substantially reduced.

It is now apparent that in both of the devices 10 and 110, the twodissimilar metals are not held in stationary 'interengagement within theelectrolytic liquid as in the case of all previous devices of thisnature with which I devices 10 and 110, on the other hand, the constantrotation of the members 38 and 138 causes the decomposed productsthereof to be deposited into the liquid by a scrubbing action on theirouter surfaces, obviating the impediment to free flow of electrons.

When the device 10 or the device is coupled as in FIG. 4 into a systemwhich makes use of the electrolytic liquid, the electron flow, throughthe interconnected conductors 116 and 172 via the electrical connection174, and through the electrolyte itself. results in an extension of thecathodic action beyond the devices themselves and into the water-usingsystem itself. This not only helps produce the noncorrosive action inthe system, which is the primary purpose of the devices 10 and 110, butactually causes the system to become plated with the products ofdecomposition and thereby protected against corrosion and scale build-uptherewithin.

It is to be appreciated also that use of the liquid itself, flowing inresponse to pump 190, or otherwise, as a power generator, presents aeconomical, convenient and adequate source of energy for rotatingmembers 38 and 138.

The cathodic protection approach to corrosion control contemplated bythe two embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 is capable of reducing corrosion,pitting damage and the like on metal surfaces (such as in heatexchangers, boilers, immersion heaters and similar equipment) to almostzero throughout the time such surfaces are subjected to corrosiveenvironments. Thus, with reference to arrangements such as illustratedin FIG. 4, the protection can be effectively used to prevent corrosionon all metal areas of the water system that are contacted by theelectrolyte 178 and, therefore, reached by the products of decompositionof the sacrificial metals forming the anodes or negative poles 38 and138, especially in tank 170 below the waterline 176.

In this connection, while the cathode and the anode in galvanic cellsfor converting'chemical into electric energy are normally referred to asthe positive and negative poles respectively, it is to be understoodthat, as used herein, the cathode is the electrode at which currententers from theelectrolyte and that the sacrificial anode (wherechemical oxidation occurs) is the electrode at which current leaves toreturn to the electrolyte.

The self-energizing device 210 of FIG. 7 is somewhat similar to thedevice 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6, but effects continuation of thecathodic action through far greater distances into the water system.Device 210 includes a cathodic member in the form of a container 212,and an upright shaft 218 interposed between a bottom 222 and a top 220the latter of which is releasably secured by fasteners 224.

Similar to the device of FIG. 2 but in contrast to the FIG. 5construction, shaft 218 is supported bya pair of insulators 230 and 232that are respectively carried within top and bottom tubes 226 and 228.Shaft 218 is thereby supported in insulated relationship tocontainer212. A stationary metallic cup 234 is interposed betweeninsulator 230 at the top of shaft 218 with shaft 218 in direct wipingengagement with the cup 234.

cross section presenting a plurality of corners 265 in a manneridentical to the block 138 of FIGS. 4-6. Shaft 218 is secured to block238 in a manner similar to FIG. 6, having a nut 244 threaded to shaft218, a lower flange 240, and seals 268.

Device 210 includes an inlet 214 and an outlet 216 that are connectedwith a system utilizing electrolytic liquid. The system as illustratedin FIG. 7 is quite similar to that shown in FIG. 4 and includes a vesselsuch as a boiler 270 having an inlet 272 secured to container outlet 216by an electrically conductive connector fitting 274 which establishes anelectrical connection between the container 212 and the boiler 270. Anoutlet 280 for boiler 270 is coupled to a radiator 282. Return line 284connects across a check valve 288 with supply pump 290 whose outlet flowis directed into container inlet 214. A dielectric coupling 286 connectsthe container inlet 214 with supply pump 290 in a manner insulating theelectrically conductive inlet 214 from the electrically conductivepiping and other components on the upstream side of coupling 286. Amakeup water supply line 300 connects with the pump inlet across acontrol valve 302.

An electrode in the form of a probe 304 is mounted in insulatedrelationship to the boiler 270 by an insulator fitting 306. Probe 304extends into electrical contact with the liquid 278 within the boiler270. A conductor 260, insulated from container 212, electrically couplesthe external end of probe 304 with bearing cup 234.

Therefore, the shaft 218, cup 234, conductor 260, and probe 304 defineconductor means presenting a relatively low resistance path 261electrically interconnecting block 238 and the liquid 278 inside theboiler 270.

In operation, the electrolytic liquid delivered into inlet 214 causesspinning of block 238 and shaft 218 upon the insulative bearing meanspresented by insulators 230 and 232 to create the same self-cleaningaction upon the decomposing magnesium block 238 as discussed above withreference to FIGS. 1-6. Liquid within the container 212 passes throughoutlet 216 to the interior of boiler 270.

The liquid communication between container 212 and boiler 270 along withthe conductivity of the outlet 216, coupling 274, inlet piping 272 and.boiler 270, de-. fine a second conductor means presenting anotherrelatively low resistance path 263 electrically interconnectingcontainer 212 and the liquid 278 inside boiler 270. The low resistancepaths 261 and 263 provide one electrical interconnection of container212 and block 238 by way of the liquid 278 inside the boiler.Electrolytic liquid in container 212 provides another electricalinterconnection between container 212 and block 238 to completeconnection of these two members in a closed circuit,

As in the FIG. 5 embodiment, block 238 is made of material appreciablymore corroda'ble than the material used in the production of thecathodic member (container) 212, boiler 270 and the piping and otherappurtenances of the system which are to be protected cathodically. Thegalvanic action produced by the dissimilar materials making up container212 and block 238 produces a direct current flow of electrons that passalong the above-described closed circuit and, therefore, through theliquid 278 in the boiler. Utilizing the positive current conventiondiscussed above, the current flows from block 238 to the electrolyticliquid, and thence through path 261 by way of probe 304, conductor 260,cup 234 and shaft 218, back to block 238. However, the liquid in thecontainer 212, the container 212 itself, the outlet 216, the coupling274, the inlet 272, the boiler 270 and the liquid in the boiler 270 alsoprovide a path of current flow from the block 238 to the probe 304. Inthis 'manner the galvanic action produces corrosion controlling cathodicaction along the fluid path between the container 212 and the boiler 270as well as in the boiler 270 itself. All portions of boiler 270 and thegeneral area of the system connected with the boiler 270 and in contactwith the electrolytic liquid are subjected to cathodic action to preventcorrosion.

The cathodic action created by the galvanic cell is effectivelyrelocated" to emanate from probe 304. Probe 304 in effect becomes aprimary point of concentration and emanation of the cathodic action.Accordingly, selective positioning of probe 304 may be imagined asplacing the cathodic action at the location desired within the system.

The cathodic action can be induced in the system at points quite remotefrom the location of container2l2 as long as the closed circuit whichpasses through the liquid in the system is not short-circuited. In thisconnection, the insulators 230 and 232 constitute means creating arelatively high electrical resistance between shaft 218 and container212. The path of least electrical resistance for the current flowgenerated is, thus, along the aforementioned closed circuit.

The insulators 230 and 232 thereby effectively prevent short-circuitingof the side of the closed circuit presented by paths 261 and 263, andassure that the galvanic action creates the desired cathodic action inthe remotely located boiler 270. As a result, the cathodic actioncontinues through far greater distances into the system than can occurin the structure of FIGS. 4-6 wherein shaft 138 electrically connectsdirectly with container 112.

FIG. 8 represents a modified electrode in the form of a section ofpiping 304a that may be used in place of the probe 304 in FIG. 7.Section 3040 may be interposed anywhere desired in the piping that isutilized in the system, and is coupled by dielectric fittings orcouplings 308 to the adjacent lengths 310 and 312 of the piping in thesystem. The interior surface 305 of section 304a is in intimateelectrical contact with the liquid in the system flowing through thesection 304a. Interior surface 305 of section 304a is electricallycoupled with one end of conductor 260 in the same manner as cup 234 isconnected with the opposite end of the connector 260.

Preferably, conductor 260 extends through a tightly fitting, electricalinsulator plug 306a to connect with interior surface 305 so as to be ininsulated relationship to the external surface of section 304a. Sucharrangement greatly enhances the cathodic action upon the interiorsurfaces of the system, because it minimizes leakage of the electricalcurrent along the external, possibly grounded surfaces of the piping andother fluidcarrying devices in the system. In this respect, the walls ofthe system act electrically as a capacitive element between its externalsurface that is grounded and its inside surface where cathodic action isdesired. Accordingly, connecting of conductor 260 with the insidesurface while insulating it from the outside surface of section 304aassures that the capacitance presented by the walls is not interposed inthe closed circuit.

The operation is similar to that of FIG. 7 with the electron flow of thegalvanic action and accordingly, the cathodic action, continuing fromthe container 212 through the remotely located system at least up topiping section 304a. piping section 304a is determinative of where theelectrical current flow and cathodic action is placed" within thesystem.

In the form illustrated in FIG. 9, one dielectric fitting has beenreplaced by an electrically conductive coupling 314 so as toelectrically connect section 304a with piping length 310, while theother coupling 308 electrically insulates section 304a from the otherlength 312. In this manner a certain amount of the electron flow of thegalvanic action will be carried by the internal surface of piping length310 up to section 304a. Even though piping length 310 may ultimately beelectrically connected with container 212, no shortcircuiting of theclosed circuit results, since the internal surface of piping length 310becomes a part of path 263. When utilizing conductive coupling 314,however, care must be taken to assure that a path across the capacitivelength 310 to its outside surface and ground does not present lesselectrical resistance than path 263. Such a ground path would open theclosed circuit and interrupt the self-energizing feature of the cell.Preferably, therefore, section 304a is coupled by dielectric fittings tothe remainder of the system as shown in FIG. 8. This assures that theliquid is forced to carry the direct current flow to the probe tominimize capacitive leakage through the walls of the system to ground.Furthermore, this results in a better charge distribution and cathodicaction onto all surface of the system contacted by the electrolyte.Similar factors apply equally, of course, in considering how to mountthe probe 304 of FIG. 7 in electically insulated relationship to boiler270 to force the liquid to carry most of the electrical charge to probe304.

The ability of the magnesium cell in container 212 to be locatedremotely from the position in the system where the cathodic action isconcentrated, along with the differing forms of electrodes such as probe304 or section 304a which may be utilized, permit the galvanic cell tobe placed and connected with the system in convenient, accessiblelocations to greatly increase the versatility and uses of the cell. Forinstance, the FIG. 7-9 arrangements easily and efficiently treatcathodically the inside walls of complicated piping such as used inradiators, an effect which heretofore could be accomplished only byplacing the sacrificial anode of a galvanic cell directly inside theradiator.

In FIGS. 7-9, the rotary action induced by the liquid flow withincontainer 212 assures that the device 210 retains the advantageousself-cleaning features and wiping action against cup 234. Further, thearrangements shown in FIGS. 7-9 have the additional corrosioncontrolling action resulting from the decomposition of the magnesiumblock 238. The products of decomposition emanating from block 238 willtend to plate the inner surfaces of the system connected to device 210and protect the system from corrosion.

It will be apparent that even greater concentration of the directcurrent and cathodic action into a specific area within the system canbe achieved by utilizing a conductor wire as path 263. Such a conductorwill extend from container 212 to a specified point on an interiorsurface of the system. The cathodic action will then be concentrated inthe region between this specified point and the probe. In sucharrangement, however, the cathodic action is not effectively directed toall parts of the system along path 263 as is accomplished in FIGS. 7-9.

FIG. 10 illustrates a device 210 identical to that illustrated in FIG.7. However, instead of being electrically connected to produce cathodicaction in a system utilizing the same electrolytic liquid as flowsthrough device 210, the anode-cathode members of the magnesium cell ofdevice 210 in FIG. 10 are so interconnected as to electrically treat anelectrolytic fluid 424 (such as water) of a separate system 420.

System 420 includes schematically depicted mechanism 422 that receiveselectrolytic fluid 424 from a reservoir 412. A pump 426 draws fluid 424from mechanism 422 and, through piping 428, delivers the electro lyticfluid 424 to the upper end of reservoir 412.

The steel shaft 218 of the device 210 is again connected by conductor260 with an electrode 404 that is interposed in the system 420 utilizingthe electrolytic fluid 424. Electrode 404 includes a flat plate section406 and an upright, tubular section 408 through which fluid 424 isdirected. Electrode 404 is mounted in electrically insulatedrelationship to reservoir 412 by insulator 410.

A second electrode 414 in the form of a flat plate is disposed inparallel, adjacent relationship to electrode plate 406 to define aregion 416 between the electrode plates 406 and 414 through which thefluid 424 entering from piping 428 and tubular section 408 must pass.Electrode plate 414 may be mounted by one or more insulator spacers 418to plate 406. A second conductor 458 electrically couples the plateelectrode 414 with the cathodic member of device 210, i.e., electricallyconductive container 212. Nonconductive member 459 insulates conductor458 from reservoir 412.

The inlet 214 and outlet 216 of container 212 are interconnected throughpiping across a pump 430 which acts as the generator creating a liquidswirling motion and consequent rotation and advantageous cleaning actionupon the magnesium block 238 inside container 212, the liquid flowing incontainer 212 being separate from the liquid 424. As in the FIGS. and 7embodiments, this power generator may be in other forms such as anelectric motor connected to rotate the central shaft 118 or 218.

Conductor 458 defines a relatively low resistance path 463 thatelectrically connects the cathodic member (container 212) of thegalvanic cell with electrode plate 414 and the fluid 424 flowing inregion 416 of the system. Another relatively low resistance electricalpath 461, which includes conductors 260, interconnects the anodic member(magnesium block 238 of device 210) with electrode 404 and the fluid 424in region 416. This FIG. 10 arrangement, similar to FIGS. 7-9, presentsa galvanic device 210 and a pair of conductor means 461, 463 connectingthe two members of the galvanic cell with a location remote from device210 to establish an electrical field at that location capable ofperforming useful work. The insulator bearings in device 210 for shaft218 prevent short-circuiting of that electrical field.

Electrode plates 406 and 414 are bare in their areas which are exposedto the fluid 424 flowing through region 416 and are disposed above thelevel 432 of fluid 424 in reservoir 412. These plates 406, 414 arespacedapart a distance in relation to the magnitude of the power of theelectric field generated by the galvanic cell, and are relativelydisposed so that the fluid 424 flowing through region 416 conducts theflow of electrons across region 416 to electrically interconnect plates406 and 414. Through the fluid in region 416 of the system, therefore,the galvanic cell is again interconnected in a self-energizing, closedcircuit.

In one application of this invention it has been found that a spacing ofabout one-eighth inch between the plates 406 and 414 maintains thedesired conductivity across region 416 without inducing excessiverestriction to the fluid flow therethrough. Such spacing may varymarkedly, however, dependent upon various factors including the strengthof the electric field generated by the cell, the velocity of the fluidflow in the system, and the size and configuration of.the electrodes.

The flow of electrons across region 416 acts to electrically treat thefluid 424 in a manner similar to that disclosed in my US. Pat. No.3,585,122. As described in said patent, the flow of electrons throughthe fluid in region 416 patent, the flow fo electrons through the fluidinregion 416 produces a polarizing action within the fluid 424 to freeimpurity ions from water molecule clusters to permit formation of ioniccrystals by nucleation of coagulation. The polarizing action causesalignment of the dipole water molecules and the ions of the dissolvedimpurities. The ions are thereby freed from the molecule clusters topermit oppositely charged ions to form ionic crystals that maysubsequently be easily removed from the system. Similar fluid correctiveaction takes place when the fluid 424 being utilized in system 420 isother than water.

In contrast to the apparatus described in the aforementioned patent, thearrangement illustrated in FIG. 10 is capable of effectivelyelectrically treating the fluid without the use of a relativelyhigh-power electric field. Instead, the weak electric field and electronflow generated by the galvanic cell is utilized to electrically treatthe fluid 424.

The use of conductors 260 and 458 for connecting electrode plates 406and 414 with the anodic and cathodic cell members permits reservoir 412to be disposed at a location remote from container 212 with minimumattenuation of the electric field generated by the galvanic cell andapplied across electrode plates 406 and 414.

In the FIGS. 1, 5, 7 and 10 arrangements, at least part of the cathodicmember of the galvanic cell is the steel container 12, 112, 212. In theFIGS. 5, 7 and 10 arrangements, the container 112, 212 may alternatelybe constructed of nonconductive material such as plastic, and anotherform of cathodic member can be utilized in conjunction with thenonconducting container. For example, the cathodic member may be acylindrical liner insert removably carried inside the container.Further, in the FIGS. 5 and 7 arrangements, wherein the container outlet116, 216 couples with electrically conductive piping, said piping or atleast a portion thereof nearest the container, may be considered thecathodic member when the container is of nonconductive material.

Regardless of which configurations of cathodic members are utilized,however, proper operations of the de vices 10,110, 210 require that theanodic and cathodic members be interconnected to produce the galvanicaction and flow of electrons therebetween. In the embodimentsillustrated, the electrolytic liquid within containers 12, 112, 212 actsas this electrical interconnection, requiring that the cathodic member(such as the electrically-conductive-piping alternative discussed above)be in electrical contact with this electrolytic liquid. To induce theself-energizing feature, of course, it is necessary that anotherelectrical connection be made between the anodic and cathodic members,this being the direct contact between discs 36 and 38 in FIG. 1, and inFIG. 5 it is the wiping engagement between the domed ends of shaft 118with tubes 126, 128 and the container 112. In FIGS. 7-9 this secondelectrical connection is completed through the electrolytic liquid 278of the remote system, while in FIG. 10, the electrolytic fluid in region416 completes the closed circuit connection.

While the anodic members of the cells of the three embodiments havehereinabove been designated by the numerals 38, 138 and 238respectively, the cathodic members cannot be designated or delineatedwith the same degree of definiteness. The primary cathodic metal in FIG.2 is in the disc 36, but the action is also effected by virtue of thepresence of shaft-l8 and associated parts. Moreover, to a certain extendat least, there is a galvanic couple between the disc 38 and thecontainer 12 through the liquid in the latter. The same is true in H6.5, not only because of the engagement of shaft 118 with the container112, but because of the liquid between the latter and the block 138. InFIGS. 7 and also, the container 212, in addition to the cathodic shaft218, acts through the liquid as a cathodic member in conjunction withthe anodic member 238.

Having thus described the invention, what is claimed as new and desiredto be secured by Letter Patent is:

1. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic liquid, aself-energizing corrosion control assembly comprising:

a container for electrolytic liquid remotely located from said systemand including a first member disposed for electrical contact with saidliquid when the latter is in the container;

a second member carried by the container and disposed for electricalcontact with said liquid when the latter is in the container, wherebysaid liquid in the container electrically interconnects said members;

first conductor means including conduit means coupling the containerwith the system for transferring liquid between the container and thesystem and for defining a first relatively low electrial resistance pathbetween said first member and the liquid in the system;

second conductor means coupling said system with said second member fordefining a second relatively low electrial resistance path between saidsecond member and the liquid in the system,

said first and second conductor means thereby cooperating to complete aclosed circuit when liquid is present in the container'and the system,

said members being of dissimilar materials capable of acting as agalvanic couple to produce aflow of electrons therebetween along saidclosed circuit, whereby the galvanic action produces corrosioncontrolling cathodic action in said system; and

a relatively high electrical resistance interposed between said memberspreventing short-circuiting of said closed circuit.

2. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, wherein one of said materials iselectronegative above hydrogen in the electromotive force series ofelements and the other of said materials is electropositive belowhydrogen in the electromotive force series of elements.

3. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, there being an electricallyconductive shaft secured to said second member and mounting the latterin the container.

4. An assembly as set forth in claim 3, said shaft being rotatablysupported by the container, there being a power generator for rotatingsaid second member to reduce the accumulation of substances which tendto impede said flow of electrons.

5. An assembly as set forth in claim 4, wherein said generator comprisesmeans for directing at least a portion of said liquid in the containeragainst said second member to cause the latter to rotate.

6. An assembly as set forth in claim 4, said container beingelectrically conductive and being at least a part of said first member,said resistance including electrically insulative bearing meanssupporting said shaft in insulated relationship to the container.

7. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said second conductormeans includes: a stationary, electrically conductive cup interposedbetween said bearing means and said shaft in direct wiping engagementwith the latter, an electrode interposed in the system in electricalcontact with said liquid in the system, and a conductor electricallycoupling said cup with said electrode.

8. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said system includes aliquid-containing vessel having a conductive wall, said electrodecomprising a probe mounted in insulated relationship to said wall of thevessel and extending through said wall into electrical contact with theliquid in the vessel.

9. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said system includesliquid conducting piping and said electrode comprises a section of saidpiping, there being fittings for coupling the opposite ends of saidsection to adjacent lengths of said piping on opposite sides of saidsection.

10. An assembly as set forth in claim 9, wherein both of said fittingsare of material electrically insulating said section from both of saidlengths.

11. An assembly as set forth in claim 9, wherein one of said fittings isof material electrically insulating said section from one of saidlengths.

12. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, said conduit means having aninternal surface in contact with said liquid communicating between thesystem and the container, said liquid-contacting internal surfacedefining a portion of said firt path.

13. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic fluid, aself-energizing corrosion control assembly for electrically treatingsaid fluid with low power galvanic action, said assembly comprising:

first and second spaced electrodes defining a region therebetween;

electrically inteconnected first and second members of dissimilarmaterials in contact with a common electrolytic liquid and capable ofacting as a galvanic couple to produce a flow of electrons therebetween;

first and second conductor means for coupling said first and secondmembers with said first and second electrodes respectively withoutcommingling the fluid of the system and the liquid associated with saidmembers; and

apparatus defining a fluid path direction said fluid through said regionbetween the electrodes,

said electrodes being bare in areas in contact with said fluid and beingrelatively disposed for conductance of said flow of electrons acrosssaid region by said fluid therein to complete a closed circuit betweensaid members, whereby the galvanic action electrically treats the fluidas the latter flows through said region.

14. An assembly as set forth in claim 13, said first member including anelectrically conductive container for the electrolytic liquid locatedremotely from said apparatus, said second member being rotatably 16. Anassembly as set forth in claim 15, said first conductor means including'a first conductor electrically coupling said container with said firstelectrode.

17. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, wherein said second conductormeans includes a stationary, conductive cup in direct wiping engagementwith said shaft, said second conductor means also including a secondconductor electrically coupling said cup with said sec ond electrode.

1. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic liquid, aself-energizing corrosion control assembly comprising: a container forelectrolytic liquid remotely located from said system and including afirst member disposed for electrical contact with said liquid when thelatter is in the container; a second member carried by the container anddisposed for electrical contact with said liquid when the latter is inthe container, whereby said liquid in the container electricallyinterconnects said members; first conductor means including conduitmeans coupling the container with the system for transferring liquidbetween the container and the system and for defining a first relativelylow electrial resistance path between said first member and the liquidin the system; second conductor means coupling said system with saidsecond member for defining a second relatively low electrial resistancepath between said second member and the liquid in the system, said firstand second conductor means thereby cooperating to complete a closedcircuit when liquid is present in the container and the system, saidmembers being of dissimilar materials capable of acting as a galvaniccouple to produce a flow of electrons therebetween along said closedcircuit, whereby the galvanic action produces corrosion controllingcathodic action in said system; and a relatively high electricalresistance interposed between said members preventing short-circuitingof said closed circuit.
 2. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, whereinone of said materials is electronegative above hydrogen in theelectromotive force series of elements and the other of said materialsis electropositive below hydrogen in the electromotive force series ofelements.
 3. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, there being anelectrically conductive shaft secured to said second member and mountingthe latter in the container.
 4. An assembly as set forth in claim 3,said shaft being rotatably supported by the container, there being apower generator for rotating said second member to reduce theaccumulation of substances which tend to impede said flow of electrons.5. An assembly as set forth in claim 4, wherein said generator comprisesmeans for directing at least a portion of said liquid in the containeragainst said second member to cause the latter to rotate.
 6. An assemblyas set forth in claim 4, said container being electrically conductiveand being at least a part of said first member, said resistanceincluding electrically insulative bearing means supporting said shaft ininsulated relationship to the container.
 7. An assembly as set forth inclaim 6, wherein said second conductor means includes: a stationary,electrically conductive cup interposed between said bearing means andsaid shaft in direct wiping engagement with the latter, an electrodeinterposed in the system in electrical contact with said liquid in thesystem, and a conductor electrically coupling said cup with saidelectrode.
 8. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said systemincludes a liquid-containing vessel having a conductive wall, saidelectrode comprising a probe mounted in insulated relationship to saidwall of the vessel and extending through said wall into electricalcontact with the liquid in the vessel.
 9. An assembly as set forth inclaim 6, wherein said system includes liquid conducting piping and saidelectrode comprises a section of said piping, there being fittings forcoupling the opposite ends of said section to adjacent lengths of saidpiping on opposite sides of said section.
 10. An assembly as set forthin claim 9, wherein both of said fittings are of material electricallyinsulating said section from both of said lengths.
 11. An assembly asset forth in claim 9, wherein one of said fittings is of materialelectrically insulating said section from one of said lengths.
 12. Anassembly as set forth in claim 1, said conduit means having an internalsurface in contact with said liquid communicating between the system andthe container, said liquid-contacting internal surface defining aportion of said firt path.
 13. In combination with a system utilizingelectrolytic fluid, a self-energizing corrosion control assembly forelectrically treating said fluid with low power galvanic action, saidassembly comprising: first and second spaced electrodes defining aregion therebetween; electrically inteconnected first and second membersof dissimilar materials in contact with a common electrolytic liquid andcapable of acting as a galvanic couple to produce a flow of electronstherebetween; first and second conductor means for coupling said firstand second members with said first and second electrodes respectivelywithout commingling the fluid of the system and the liquid associatedwith said members; and apparatus defining a fluid path direction saidfluid through said region between the electrodes, said electrodes beingbare in areas in contact with said fluid and being relatively disposedfor conductance of said flow of electrons across said region by saidfluid therein to complete a closed circuit between said members, wherebythe galvanic action electrically treats the fluid as the latter flowsthrough said region.
 14. An assembly as set forth in claim 13, saidfirst member including an electrically conductive container for theelectrolytic liquid located remotely from said apparatus, said secondmember being rotatably mounted in the container in electrical contactwith said liquid, said second conductor means including a shaft securedto said second member and rotatably supported by the container.
 15. Anassembly as set forth in claim 14, wherein is provided insulativebearing means supporting said shaft in insulated relationship to saidcontainer and defining a relatively high electrical resistanceinterposed between said members preventing short-circuiting of saidclosed circuit.
 16. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, said firstconductor means including a first conductor electrically coupling saidcontainer with said first electrode.
 17. An assembly as set forth inclaim 15, wherein said second conductor means includes a stationary,conductive cup in direct wiping engagement with said shaft, said secondconductor means also including a second conductor electrically couplingsaid cup with said second electrode.